Next Wave Workshop at the University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT — On April 1, 2025, the second Next Wave Workshop was held at the University of Utah, in partnership with PISA U (Pacific Islander Student Association - Utah). The event brought together Pacific Islander students from across Utah for a day of immersive, hands-on creative training in media and storytelling.

The workshop featured three rotating breakout sessions led by industry professionals:

• Photography with George Ngatuvai

• Cinematography with Chris Petrosie and Aisa To’omalatai

• Graphic Design with Safua Elisaia-Inman

The event created a powerful and inspiring environment, filled with emerging Pacific Islander creatives passionate about storytelling. Through each session, students not only learned practical skills but also heard firsthand from presenters about their personal journeys in creative industries. Discussions highlighted the importance of cultural identity and how it shapes and strengthens artistic vision.

“As we continue to grow the Next Wave Workshop, our goal is to go where our young talent are,” said Janay Lata. “We want Pacific Islander students to see themselves in these careers, to hear stories from professionals who look like them, and to know that they can do it too.”

The Next Wave Workshop continues to serve as a vital space for Pacific Islander youth to explore careers in media, build community, and connect their cultural heritage to creative expression.